How to Keep Kids Safe Online
In an increasingly digital world, protecting children and youth online has never been more urgent—or more complex. From TikTok scrolls to online gaming, kids today are deeply plugged into the internet. But alongside its many benefits, the digital world brings serious risks.
A 2023 study by Yujin Jang and Bomin Ko sheds light on this issue using the 4Cs risk framework, which breaks down the online threats faced by children into four categories: Contact, Content, Conduct, and Contract.
Breaking Down the 4Cs
Contact Risks
These involve harmful interactions, like online grooming, cyberbullying, or being approached by strangers.Content Risks
Exposure to violent, explicit, or misleading content (including fake news and disinformation) falls under this category.Conduct Risks
Sometimes the danger lies in children's own behavior—oversharing personal info or engaging in harmful online conduct themselves.Contract Risks
Children are vulnerable consumers. From deceptive ads to mishandled personal data, they’re often subject to shady commercial practices without even realizing it.
Countries with good online safety policies
Jang and Ko compare how three countries—Australia, Canada, and the UK—are tackling these risks through institutions, governance, and government-led programs:
Australia has taken a regulatory approach, especially focused on limiting online exposure for kids under 13.
Canada adopts a multi-level policymaking strategy, involving stakeholders from different sectors.
The UK leads with specialized agencies dedicated to online child safety, integrating input from educators, policymakers, and digital platforms.
While each country takes a unique path, they all recognize that online safety isn’t just about policing bad behavior—it’s about building a digital ecosystem that considers the needs and rights of children from the start.
The Gaps and What Needs Fixing
The study points out a key concern: there’s not enough quality research in childhood education studies that addresses online safety. This leaves major blind spots in policymaking.
To close the gap and truly minimize online risks, Jang and Ko suggest:
Regulating access for younger children, particularly those under 13.
Promoting international cooperation, with forums like the OECD and UN helping set shared standards.
Creating national-level agencies dedicated to child online safety that bring together educators, policymakers, and tech companies.
And perhaps most importantly, investing in digital literacy at the family and school levels—giving kids the skills and confidence to navigate digital spaces wisely.
Balancing Risks and Rewards
Yes, the internet can be a risky place—but it also holds massive potential for learning, creativity, and connection. The key isn’t to keep kids offline but to help them engage with technology in safe, smart ways.
It’s a tall order, but with a coordinated effort across countries, sectors, and households, we can work toward a digital world where children don’t just survive—but thrive.
References:
Jang, Y., & Ko, B. (2023). Online Safety for Children and Youth under the 4Cs Framework—A Focus on Digital Policies in Australia, Canada, and the UK. Children, 10(8), 1415. https://doi.org/10.3390/children10081415
